George Reginald Baca

George Reginald Baca, known to family and friends as “Reggie”, was born June 23, 1932 to Jose Maria Baca and Teresa Gonzales Baca. The eighth of 12 children, George grew up on the family ranch in Northern Arizona and attended Eltole School. When the family moved to the town of St. Johns, Arizona he attended St. Johns Elementary and St. Johns High School, where he excelled at all sports especially football, basketball and baseball.

During World War II, George left school to work in a factory to support the war effort. He later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps when he was 17 years old, along with five friends. He served with the First Marine Aircraft Wing in Korea (FHTNC) where he was promoted to Plane Captain of the “Black Patch” Attack Bomber Squadron of Marine Aircraft Group 12. Shortly thereafter, he was again promoted to Flight Engineer of the Marine Commandant’s Air Wing where he flew many dignitaries and VIP’s during the Vietnam War. George served 10 years in the Marine Corps reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. E6.

George returned home from Korea in March, 1955 and was sent to Dallas, Texas to train reserves while awaiting orders to El Toro Air Base, California. While on leave from Texas to visit his hometown, he courted his future wife, Barbara Pena. They fell in love and 12 days later George asked Barbara to return back with him to Texas. Late that evening, the town Judge was awakened and at 11:55 pm on July 24, 1955, George and Barbara were married.

George and Barbara eventually settled in Orange, California and raised five children. After leaving the service George began his construction career, working for a cabinet shop in Orange County California. He taught machine shop and cabinet making at Fullerton Junior College and worked for Hughes Aircraft. After 15 years, George and family moved to rural Norco, California where the family raised horses, cattle and other farm animals. George earned his General Contractors License and formed his own Construction Company operating for over 45 years. George being a devout Catholic, believed in helping everyone, always giving his time and care to church, community, friends and family.

George is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Barbara. His 5 children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. George dearly loved his entire family and his grandchildren were the love of his life.